Originally posted on The Modern Monastic Order Of Saint Simon of Cyrene: When I launched the idea and gave an explanation of why African-Americans and Orthodox Christians should celebrate the feast day of St. Simon of Cyrene, a couple of criticisms came up from within the church. One criticism is a reasonable issue. In most…

One thing I can say about being a black Orthodox Christian and among the leadership in the Brotherhood of St. Moses the Black, is that there is always a reason to go forward beyond worldly standards. That my aim, our aim as Christians, is to live as citizens of the eternal kingdom while in the … More Where Do We Go From Here: A Reflection from the BSMB Conference

(The following is a rough manuscript of my presentation at St. Basil the Great (Antiochian) Orthodox Church in Hampton on Saturday, June 24th. Somewhere in mid speech, I attempted to make some changes off the cuff. Those who heard my talk say it was great. Of course, I am my own worst critic. A link to … More The Need to Know

In his autobiography, Malcolm X stated that the Desert Fathers were the founders of Christian Church structure (1). He also briefly mentioned St. Augustine as a defender of Church doctrine against heresy (2). While Malcolm said these things specifically in is critique of white racism in Christianity, he does make an incidental point that should … More The Desert Fathers: A Beacon for Evangelism

This is why God does not open His hand; because we have closed up our hearts to our brothers and sisters. This is why the fields are arid; because love has dried up. St Basil, In Time of Famine and Drought (1) It is not hard to find finger-pointing from both sides of the … More Reconciliation On Social Justice: Nineveh’s Repentance

Originally posted on The Modern Monastic Order Of Saint Simon of Cyrene: Imagine being a young black pastor in the segregated south and you have been called upon to lead a movement against injustice. The demonstration is having some success and the supporters of the evil structure have constantly threatened and denounced what you are…

For our money is the Lord’s, however we may have gathered it. If we provide for those in need, we shall obtain plenty. This is why God allowed you to have more; not to waste it on prostitutes, drink, fancy food, expensive clothes, and all other kinds of indolence, but for you to distribute to … More Reconciliation On Wealth and Poverty: We Own Nothing

Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common. and sold their possessions and goods and divided them among all, as anyone had need. … Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the thins he possessed was his … More Reconciliation On Social Justice: A Society Within A Society

If you wish to be perfect, go sell your possessions and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come and follow me. When the young man heard this word, he went away grieving, for he had many possessions. —– Matthew 19:21, 22 Although you say you have never murdered, … More Reconciliation On Social Justice: The Consequences of Low Aim